Effects of climate change on goat production and mitigatory measures in semiarid savanna ecosystems

Abstract

Climate change poses a significant threat to goat production in semiarid savannas, disrupting the livelihoods of smallholder farmers who rely on these hardy animals for both income and food security. This review analyses the unique vulnerabilities of goats in this ecosystem, focusing on how rising temperatures, erratic rainfall patterns, and altered vegetation impact their browsing behaviour, feed availability, and overall health. A systematic search of globally indexed scientific databases to identify relevant peer-reviewed literature on the impacts of climate change on goat production in semiarid regions was performed. This review mainly focused on studies published within the last two decades to capture the latest research advancements. Climate change negatively affects goat productivity through decreased availability of high-quality forage, impaired reproductive function due to heat stress, and increased incidence of diseases associated with changing weather patterns. These challenges disproportionately impact smallholder farmers who rely on goats for subsistence and income generation. However, promising mitigation strategies offer hope for building resilience. Emerging practices such as developing heat-tolerant goat breeds and utilizing drought-resistant forage species through selective breeding programmes and ecological restoration initiatives can be enhanced and adopted. Additionally, studies highlight the effectiveness of improved animal husbandry techniques, including strategic water resource management and diversified feed sources, in enhancing goat health and productivity under changing environmental conditions. By quantifying the potential impact of climate change on goat production and highlighting the positive outcomes of novel adaptation techniques, this review emphasizes the urgency of fostering resilient goat farming practices.